What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you or a lab already have a liver tissue sample that needs a specialized pathology review to determine if a tumor is cancerous. It's typically used after a biopsy when there's a suspicious liver mass and more information is needed about whether it's hepatocellular carcinoma, another type of tumor, or a benign growth. This test helps pathologists tell the difference between liver cancer and tumors that have spread to the liver from somewhere else in the body.

What's included in this test?

This test evaluates a single specialized marker on liver tissue using a technique called immunohistochemistry, which highlights specific proteins under a microscope. This particular marker is chosen because it's normally found in liver cells, so its presence or absence in a tumor sample helps confirm whether the tumor started in the liver or came from elsewhere. The interpretation that comes with the result explains what the staining pattern means in plain terms.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account along with an explanation of what the findings mean for the tissue sample tested. Because this is a specialized tissue-based test rather than a simple numeric range, the report will describe whether the pattern seen supports a liver-origin tumor, another tumor type, or a benign finding, along with suggested next steps based on that pattern. A standard lab report is available to download directly from your account. You can also keep a record of this and any related testing over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support liver health?

While this test itself is about identifying tumor type rather than general liver function, keeping your liver as healthy as possible is always a good idea. Cutting back on alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a diet rich in vegetables and lean protein can reduce strain on the liver. Staying hydrated and avoiding unnecessary medications or supplements that are hard on the liver also helps support its natural repair processes.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days from when the lab receives the tissue sample. This timeframe allows for the detailed tissue processing and microscopic review that this type of specialized test requires. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is generally considered when a liver mass or tumor has already been found, often through imaging or a prior biopsy, and more clarity is needed about what it is. It's useful for people whose care team needs to distinguish primary liver cancer from a tumor that spread to the liver from another organ. It may also be used to help tell apart benign versus cancerous liver lesions.

What symptoms might lead someone to need this type of liver testing?

Symptoms that sometimes lead to liver tumor evaluation include unexplained abdominal pain or swelling, unintended weight loss, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and persistent fatigue. Some people have no symptoms at all and a liver mass is found incidentally during imaging done for another reason. If you're experiencing sudden severe abdominal pain, significant jaundice, or confusion, seek medical care right away.

What does it mean if this marker is present versus absent in the tissue sample?

If this liver-specific marker shows up strongly in the tumor tissue, it supports the idea that the tumor started in the liver itself rather than spreading there from another organ. If the marker is largely absent, it points toward the tumor being a different type, such as one that metastasized from elsewhere or a non-liver-origin tumor. This distinction matters because it can change what type of further testing or care approach makes sense.

How often should this type of test be repeated?

This is not a routine test you'd repeat on a schedule like a cholesterol check. It's typically done once on a specific tissue sample to answer a specific diagnostic question. If new tissue samples are collected in the future, for example from a different area of concern, this type of testing might be repeated on that new sample.

What should I do if my results suggest a concerning finding?

If your results indicate findings consistent with a liver-origin tumor or other concerning pattern, it's important to seek prompt medical care so the finding can be followed up appropriately. Bring your downloadable lab report with you, as it contains details that can inform next steps. Don't delay follow-up care for concerning findings, as early action generally leads to better outcomes.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Arginase IHC Test - Liver Cancer Tumor Analysis

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]